Teaching Awards

The School of Continuing Studies presented its first Award for Distinguished Teaching in 1993. In doing so the School wished to recognize teachers who embody the highest attributes of the teaching profession. For the University, this is a way of honouring those who are committed to quality teaching, who have the ability to motivate students and the drive to spur students on to build on the competencies they acquired before deciding to continue their formal education in the various programs offered by the School.

That's all fine and good, but what is a distinguished teacher in the eyes of the thousands of students who come to further their education at McGill after working hours? Let's listen to the collective advice of McGill's Continuing Studies students.

Distinguished teachers are people who:

Are passionate about helping students to learn;

Understand fully the subject matter being taught;

Truly care about students and their learning;

Serve as empathetic guides for students in the learning process;

Help students develop a sense of autonomy in their subject areas;

Set an example to be emulated through their sustained commitment to life-long learning;

Make a contribution to their field of study;

Work well with colleagues in delivering courses compatible with program and School objectives;

Bring the fruit of their professional work and scholarship to the class;

Give students a sense of accomplishment notwithstanding the difficulties of any given course;

Exude an aura of professionalism;

Are sensitive to the efforts that working students make in order to improve themselves and their careers; and above all else

Respect their students.

Although all distinguished teachers have not embodied all of these qualities, you would be surprised at the number who do!

The Schools Academic Committee requests the assistance of students to identify members of the Schools teaching staff who exemplify these qualities and values. Students who put forward nominations of deserving individuals are indeed helping the University to meet its own objective of recognizing quality teaching.

The Schools Academic Committee looks forward to receiving thoughtful nominations from its student body. The official criteria for this Award may be found here.